Pre-Order Digital Game Keys: Smarter Than Release Day Purchase

Pre-ordering can indeed come with risks, such as receiving games that are unfinished, requiring day-one patches, or even experiencing broken launches. However, not all pre-orders lead to disappointment. In fact, pre-ordering digital game keys can be a savvy strategy, particularly when you know the right places to buy them.

We've collaborated with Eneba to explore the benefits and strategies of pre-ordering your games, and why it can be a smart financial decision.

You'll Pay Less Than on Release Day

A common misconception is that pre-ordering means paying full price. However, when you purchase a digital game key from a reputable marketplace like Eneba, you can often secure a significant discount before the game even hits the shelves.

With AAA titles now costing upwards of $70 at launch, pre-ordering through Eneba can get you the same game at a much lower price—sometimes 10-30% less than the official store prices. This means instead of waiting months for a sale, you can lock in a lower price well before the game is released.

Avoiding Launch-Day Price Increases

The beauty of digital pre-orders at marketplaces is that prices can rise as launch day nears, especially with highly anticipated games. As the hype grows, demand for game keys increases, and prices can start to climb even before the official release.

If you delay too long, you might end up paying the full market price. By securing your price early, you ensure the best deal before demand pushes prices up, allowing you to enjoy the game at a discount rather than rushing to find a last-minute offer.

Older Games Cost Way Less

One of the most compelling advantages of digital marketplaces is the significant price drop of older games over time. While new releases can be pricey, games that have been out for a year or more often see price reductions of up to 70-80% off their original cost.

Whether you're into award-winning single-player adventures, competitive multiplayer games, or beloved indie gems, these older titles remain just as enjoyable, but without the high cost.

Even complete editions, which include all DLCs and expansions, are typically cheaper than purchasing just the base game at launch. With digital game keys, there's no disadvantage to waiting—the game is always available, and the price only improves. Patience can lead to substantial savings, making your gaming backlog both richer and more affordable.

So, if you're sure about a game, pre-ordering a digital key from a trusted marketplace like Eneba allows you to save money before the game launches, get instant access on release day, and sidestep any launch-day price hikes. It's a strategy that just makes sense.